YEAR ONE: Building A Good Foundation

The first-year program emphasizes building a strong foundation for becoming a mature follower of Jesus Christ. This foundation is grounded in both biblical teachings and practical application, focusing on sound doctrine and how to apply biblical principles to daily life. Students will engage in a learning environment empowered by the Holy Spirit, centered on Christ, and designed to be intentionally transformative. This approach ensures their faith is deeply rooted and capable of withstanding life's challenges. Whether you're new to exploring the Bible or seeking a deeper understanding of its central Truths, Art Evans’ SOV offers a welcoming and enriching learning experience. No prior theological background is necessary – just an attentive mind and a heart hungry to explore and discover foundational truths of the Christian faith.

Semester: Fall 2025

Start Date: Monday, August 10, 2025 - Finish Date: November 13, 2025 (14 weeks)

Expectations: Students must attend all classes or watch the recording of the class before the opening of the next scheduled class, complete assigned readings, participate in class discussions, and complete all assignments and exams.

Course 1:  Christian Foundations (Part One)

• Description: Embark on a journey of discovery and growth in this foundational course, designed to help you establish deep roots in the Word and ways of Jesus Christ and understand your unique place within God's family. We will explore the essential building blocks of Christian faith, principles, and practices that cultivate God’s gifts and callings. This course provides a supportive environment for personal growth and the development of your role in God's kingdom.

• Finishing this course, you will understand:

• The two main avenues of development are practical, from “Blueprint to Building,” and spiritual, from “Seed to Fruitful Tree.” You will understand the transformative processes and the profound benefits of nurturing a thriving relationship with God.

• The tools, weapons, principles, and resources of growing strong in Christ.

• How to apply the essential elements of Christian faith to your everyday life.

• The essential characteristics of a Mature, Fruitful, and Faithful Christian.

Course 2: Introduction To Biblical Studies    

• Description: This introductory course offers a foundational overview of the Old and New Testaments. Enhancing clarity, comprehension, and confidence, we will explore the Bible's historical, literary, and cultural contexts. We will examine its diverse genres, key themes, and major narratives. Additionally, the course will introduce fundamental principles of biblical interpretation, equipping students with the tools needed to understand the meaning and significance of Scripture.

• Finishing this course, you will understand:

• The theological themes of God’s Word and how they apply to our daily lives.

• The Authorship and literary genres of the Old and New Testaments.

• The history and cultural context of the Bible

• The fundamental components of Biblical interpretation

Course 3: The Nature and Character of God 

• Description: This course emphasizes the importance of understanding and maintaining a Biblical perspective on the Person of God. Students will explore foundational theological concepts related to God's nature, including His transcendence, holiness, omnipotence, love, grace, and faithfulness. Through careful textual analysis, theological reflection, and historical perspectives, participants will gain a solid understanding of who God is and how His nature influences His actions and relationships with humanity. We will give attention to the implications of God's character for Christian doctrine, worship, ethics, and daily living. The course aims to deepen reverence for God, strengthen faith, and equip students to articulate a Biblical understanding of God's character and nature.

• Finishing this course, you will understand:

• The Nature and Character of God as revealed through His Word, Spirit, and Son.  

• Your perception of God’s nature/character influences every area of your life.

• How your view of God shapes your treatment of people.

• How to articulate a clear Biblical perspective of God’s nature and character.

Course 4: Basic Bible Doctrines (Part One)

• Description: This engaging introductory course explores the core doctrines and teachings of Christianity. We will examine key theological truths based on doctrines such as the Triune Being of God, the Inspiration, Inerrancy, and Infallibility of Scripture, Water Baptism, and Communion.

• Finishing this course, you will understand:

• How to confidently identify and communicate the primary creeds of Christianity.

• A Biblical worldview based on the tenets and beliefs of the Kingdom of God.

• How essential truths structure and shape our lives, communities, and world.

• How to continue building upon the foundation of the Core Truths of God’s Word.

Course 5: The Church of Jesus Christ

• Description: This engaging course invites you to explore the divine design, dimensions, and destiny of the New Testament Church. At the heart of the Christian community, we will examine our unity with Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church, and one another as His Body. We will also investigate the metaphors the Bible uses to describe the Church's compelling purpose, supernatural power, and promised provision.

• Finishing this course, you will understand:

• The origin, design, function, and purpose of God’s Church on the earth.

• The essential qualities that make up the Church and a thriving environment.

• The divine potential in each member and the corporate Body of Christ.

• The divine design and functionality of the Ministry Gifts, Spiritual Gifts, and Gifts of the Holy Spirit within the community of the Local Church.

Course 6: The Promise, Person, and Power of The Holy Spirit

• Description: This course offers a comprehensive introduction to the biblical understanding of the Holy Spirit. We will explore the Spirit's distinct personhood within the Trinity, His roles in creation and salvation, discover the Old and New Testament promises concerning the Spirit's coming, and investigate the transformative power He brings to believers and the church.

• Finishing this course, you will understand:

• The personhood, nature, and power of God’s Holy Spirit.

• The differences between the Fruit of the Spirit and the Gifts of the Spirit.

• Both the universal and personal engagement of the Holy Spirit.

• How the Holy Spirit transforms, guides and empowers our lives of service within His Kingdom and within our world.